Which tumor marker is specifically a marker for prostate cancer?

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by prostate gland cells, and it is the primary tumor marker used in the detection and monitoring of prostate cancer. Elevated levels of PSA in the blood can indicate the presence of prostate cancer, although other conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis, can also lead to increased PSA levels. PSA testing is commonly used in conjunction with digital rectal exams to screen for prostate cancer in men.

The specific nature of PSA as a marker for prostate cancer makes it uniquely valuable in clinical settings focused on this type of cancer. It is important for healthcare providers to interpret PSA levels within the context of other clinical findings and testing to provide a comprehensive evaluation for patients at risk for or diagnosed with prostate cancer.